I think generally, as we grow older or maybe more appropriately as we become more mature our engagement in dialogue becomes less aggressive and more appreciative... well sometimes. I think I've drifted through phases of excitement, anxiety, frustration and disappointment along the path of trying to engage in meaningful dialogue and even now as I may sway to and fro through the mix of vibes depending on the context, I've come to a clear realization about the power of appreciative engagement.
The appreciative engagement context assumes that no one is deliberately malicious, but that because of perceptions, we often place judgments on statements that initiate a downward spiral leading ultimately to meaningless and sometimes bitter dialogue. If we adopt a position of appreciative engagement, then we defer from judging and instead adopt a posture that accepts peacefully and responds positively - but never dishonestly.
The challenge is when the dialogue is itself based on negative or dishonest substance - in which case your responsibility is to be straight up, yet peaceful and appreciative - making it clear that you are not judging, but that you do not condone dishonesty.
+ve vibes,
Mark
The appreciative engagement context assumes that no one is deliberately malicious, but that because of perceptions, we often place judgments on statements that initiate a downward spiral leading ultimately to meaningless and sometimes bitter dialogue. If we adopt a position of appreciative engagement, then we defer from judging and instead adopt a posture that accepts peacefully and responds positively - but never dishonestly.
The challenge is when the dialogue is itself based on negative or dishonest substance - in which case your responsibility is to be straight up, yet peaceful and appreciative - making it clear that you are not judging, but that you do not condone dishonesty.
+ve vibes,
Mark
